Body-Mind Healing Strategies in Patients with Cancer: a Qualitative Content Analysis

Abstract

Background: Cancer is a major health problem around the world. The use of coping strategies among patients<br />with cancer depends on several issues. This study was conducted to determine coping strategies used by patients<br />with cancer in south-east Iran. Methods: This study is a conventional, qualitative content analysis with a descriptive<br />explorative approach. Data saturation achieved after interviewing 13 participants in 15 interviews. Using an in-depth<br />individual semi-structured approach the participants were asked to narrate their experiences of strategies that they used to<br />cope with cancer. The following were considered: unit of analysis, meaning unit, condensation, code, sub-category,<br />category, and main category. Results: Data analysis led to extraction of two main categories of body-mind healing<br />strategies: being connected to the body and mindfully reconnected to the self. The first category was explained with<br />reference to two sub-categories, being aware of intelligence and body nurturing. The second category was explained<br />with the three sub-categories of using embodying knowledge, living for the moment, and being connected to nature.<br />Conclusion: According to the results of this qualitative study, it is possible to form discussion groups with peers or to<br />have self-reflective practice learning groups to reflect patients' questions and strategies that they use for body-mind<br />healing.